Science
Mode of Action
In the normal physiology, the activation of various receptors triggers the production of intracellular hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), which acts as a second messenger such as calcium or cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). H2O2 induces the oxidation of cysteine thiol on target proteins. Such oxidation causes conformation change and affects protein-protein interaction and activity. After the signal, H2O2 is eliminated by Prx enzymes through this coupling reaction.
In a diseased state such as inflammation or a stress condition, however, high H2O2 levels causes Prx enzyme inactivation and the overoxidation of target proteins and macromolecules. Consequently, such abnormal overoxidation causes tissue hyperplasia, dysfuction and damage. If we could replace the inactive Prx enzymes with stable chemical agents, we could control abnormal H2O2 levels and thus normalize cellular function. Our drug development starts with this new redox signaling.